Definition

A time when female mammals are not sexually active, occurring between two cycles of sexual activity.

Example

During anestrus, the female does not show signs of being in heat.

Conversation

Did you know that some animals go through a phase called anestrus?

Really? I never heard of that before. What does it mean?

It’s basically the time when female mammals aren't in heat and are inactive sexually.

That sounds interesting! I guess it helps them conserve energy between breeding cycles.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Anestrus is formed from "an-" (meaning without) and "estrus" (from Greek "oistros", meaning a state of sexual excitement or heat). The term describes a period in which an animal is not in a state of sexual receptivity or heat.

Memory Tip

Think of 'without' ('an-') sexual excitement ('estrus') to remember that anestrus refers to a time when an animal is not in heat.

Visually Confused Words